BRITAIN'S youngest clown is joining the circus!

Ramsbottom youngster Gareth Ellis - otherwise known as Bippo the clown - is joining the famous Moscow State Circus when they perform in Heaton Park in Prestwich next month.

The talented nine-year-old is packing his juggling balls and walking globe and moving into a caravan on the site for two weeks while the circus is in town.

And after several training sessions with the stars of the big top, Gareth will actually get to perform in the ring.

During the two weeks, the young clown will be tutored by his parents, who are temporarily swapping the comforts of their Eliza Street home for the circus life.

Proud mum Kath said: "This really is a fantastic opportunity. It's one of the big ones.

"We went to see the show in Leeds last Saturday and it's even better than it was three years ago. Gareth's really looking forward to it."

And Gareth's pals at St Paul's Primary School in Bury will have a chance to see their classmate in action during a behind the scenes visit to the circus.

"All his friends are coming to see us," said Kath.

"When opportunities come like this come up you've got to grab them. This is something very special."

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